Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced Monday more than 20 million passengers traveled through Midway in 2013. That’s the highest number in the airport’s 86-year history.

Emanuel calls Midway “a vital part of our city’s strong transportation network.” He says it’s key to creating new jobs for Chicago residents and to making the city a top tourist destination.

Midway added 12 new destinations in 2013, including flights to the Dominican Republic and Jamaica.

Rosemarie Andolino is commissioner of the Chicago Department of Aviation. She says Midway’s success is due to the commitment of its airlines, particularly Southwest Airlines, which flies to more cities from Chicago than from any other city.

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